Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson's 2-year-old son is currently in critical condition, according to a report by The Pioneer Press.

The local paper spoke with Adrian's father, Nelson Peterson, who confirmed that his grandson is receiving treatment at a South Dakota hospital after a "tragic" incident.

"All I can say is, we are asking for prayers and for respect for our family as we deal with this tragic situation," Nelson Peterson said in a brief phone interview, declining to further comment.

The 2-year-old—who, as The Pioneer Press reports, is not Adrian Jr., the son with whom the football star is often photographed— was seriously injured after an alleged beating from a man dating the mother of the child, according to TMZ.

The suspect was reportedly alone with the child at an apartment complex when he placed the 911 call to report a choking.

Peterson missed practice Thursday to travel to Sioux Falls for a "personal matter," but returned on Friday and is expected to play this weekend.

"I should start off by saying I really appreciate all the support that I've been receiving from fans, the Vikings organization," he said, according to The Pioneer Press. "You know, football is something I will always fall back on. It gets me through tough times. Just being around the guys in here, that's what I need in my life, guys supporting me, and just being able to go out and play this game I love. Things that I go through, I've said a thousand times, it helps me play this game to a different level. I'm able to kind of release a lot of my stress through this sport, so that's what I plan on doing."

Your information may be shared with other NBCUniversal businesses and used to better tailor our services and advertising to you. For more details about how we use your information, see our Privacy Policy. If you are located outside of the U.S., your information may be transferred to, processed and used in the U.S.